This species likes to be placed in semi-shade or full sun. For winter, a temperate yet frost-free greenhouse is the best location. Its sizable flowers are susceptible to wilting from exposure to night frost. Rain and frost protection is advised when the flower is blooming.
Across the growing season, be sure not to let the soil dry out; daily watering is advised. The rootball needs to be kept moist but not overwatered. Magnolias thrive with water containing a more acidic content between 5,5 and 7 pH value.
Feeding Star Magnolia can take place every week with a liquid fertiliser or once a month with a solid organic mix. We would recommend the Naruko Slow Release Feed.
Following the flowering, new shoots can be trimmed back to a couple of leaves after a handful has grown. Its large leaves can be trimmed too. To do this, fold along the leaf’s middle nerve and diagonally trim to make a reduced pointed shape. This should help reduce any shading of inner twigs.
Wiring is best done during the dormant winter season when the whole tree is visible. This requires some monitoring as the wire can indent the bark quite easily. We recommend using wires that match the branch’s thickness: if the wire you choose is too thick, you will damage the bark. If it is too thin, it won’t be effective.
Repotting your tree is an important way to provide a fresh and suitable soil mix and ensure appropriate root health. Star Magnolias require repotting once every three years for younger trees, and when older, it can be less so. Its roots are commonly tender, so pruning them should be done with care. This is particularly true of older trees.
Trees that are ready for repotting will require root pruning, a suitable new pot and appropriate soil mix.
When repotting, do not cut back the root mass by a large amount, and choose a well-draining soil mix that has a neutral or slightly higher PH value of 5-6, but not over 7. We tend to use a mixture of different speciality bonsai soils on our trees. Every species is different, so please contact us for free soil-mix advice or to take advantage of our repotting service.
Magnolia stellata
Bonsai trees aren’t only magnificent additions to an indoor oasis; they are more than capable of standing out in any garden. Many Bonsai species are incredibly hardy and withstand nature’s colder and damper turns with aplomb, making them worthwhile outdoor plants. We have an extensive library of care guides for outdoor bonsai trees. It’s not about selecting the perfect bonsai, it’s about selecting the perfect bonsai for you.
Star Magnolia can be propagated from seed or cuttings, as well as air layering. Spring is the time to sow seeds, and cuttings should be planted in the summer.
Star Magnolias are a species that is seldom prey to pests or disease onset. If your Star Magnolia is overwatered, leaf drop and root rot can occur. Chlorosis can set in if there is a lack of fertiliser. If scale or aphids appear, you can use an appropriate pesticide.
Yes, Star Magnolias are good for bonsai, but can be something of a challenge. They are slow growers requiring plenty of maintenance. They also grow quite large flowers that make them look somewhat out of proportion, so trimming and pruning may be more of a priority than other plants. Star Magnolias are good for bonsai, but expect a somewhat temperamental plant.
